Some of the Smallmines may limp on with the sales of housecoal,but the writing is on the wall for most.
There are six small mines: Ayle, Dan y Graig No.4, Eckington, Hilltop, Monument, Nant hir No.2.
Total employees (surface and underground) probably somewhere between 75 and 100 with Nant hir No.2 being the largest at about 30.
In view of the price premium on anthracite, the two Welsh ones may have the longest lives subject to size of take and rate of extraction.
Crofton's extended share offer closes tomorrow - wonder if they've raised sufficient capital to start work?
Even with the new relaxed mining regulations, it'll become increasingly difficult to obtain qualified men (especially for officials, surveying, etc), provide viable rescue cover, etc.
Additionally, the second hand equipment market must be shrunk to the point where sourcing machinery will become an additional problem.